2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

2. Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

2.1 Electrostatic Potential
Exercise
Very short answer questions (VSA)
1. What is the work done in moving a charge 10 µC between two points having a potential difference of
100 V? [1 mJ]
Solution
Work done = potential difference × charge moved = 100 ×(10 × 10−6) = 1 × 10–3 J
2. Define potential difference between two points in an electric field.
Solution
Potential difference between two points in an electric field is the work done to move a unit positive
charge from one point to the other against the field, without changing its kinetic energy.
3. Define electric potential.
Solution
Electric potential at a point in an electric field is the work done in bringing a unit positive charge from
infinity to that point against the field, without changing its kinetic energy.
4. Define SI unit of electric potential.
Solution
In SI, the unit of electric potential is volt. The electric potential at a point is said to be one volt, if one
joule of work is done to move one coulomb of electric charge from infinity to that point.
1 volt = 1 joule (coulomb)−1
5. Electric potential on the surface of a spherical conducting shell is 50 V. What is the potential at the
centre of the shell? [50 V]
Solution
50 V (Vsurface = Vinside for a conducting shell)
6. How does the electric potential due to a point charge vary with the distance of the point from the charge?
Solution
Electric potential varies inversely as the distance of the point from the charge.
7. The electric potential is constant in a region. How does the electric field vary in that region?
Solution
 dV d 
Electric field in that region is zero. ∵ E = = ( constant ) = 0 
 dx dx 
8. How does the electric potential due to an electric dipole vary with the distance of a far off point from the
dipole?
Solution
Electric potential varies inversely as the square of the distance of the point from the dipole.
9. What is an equipotential surface?
Solution
An equipotential surface is a surface with a constant value of potential at all points on it.

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2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

10. What is the work done in moving a unit positive charge from one point to another on an equipotential
surface?
Solution
Work done is zero.
11. Two like point charges q1 and q2, initially at large separation, approach each other. How does the
electrostatic potential energy of the system change?
Solution
The potential energy of the system increases
12. Two unlike point charges q1 and q2, initially at large separation, approach each other. How does the
electrostatic potential energy of the system change?
Solution
The potential energy of the system decreases
13. Can two equipotential surfaces intersect each other?
Solution
No. The intersection of two equipotential surfaces means that at the point of intersection, there are two
values of potential which is impossible. Alternatively, electric lines of force are normal to equipotential
surfaces. If two equipotential surfaces intersect each other, it means that electric field at the point of
intersection has two directions which is not possible.
14. A dielectric slab of dielectric constant K is placed in a region of uniform electric field. How does the
field change?
Solution
Field decreases by K times.
15. Define polarization of a dielectric medium.
Solution
Dipole moment per unit volume of a dielectric placed in an external electric field.

Short answer type questions (SA – 2 marks)

16. Two conducting spheres of radii r1 and r2 have equal charges. Find the ratio of their potentials.
Solution
1 V r
V∝  1 = 2
r V2 r1

17. Two conducting spheres of radii r1 and r2 have charges of same surface density. Find the ratio of their
potentials.
Solution
σr
V=
ε0
When σ is constant, V α r
V1 r1
=
V2 r2

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 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

18. Two conducting spheres of radii r1 and r2 are charged to the same potential. Find the ratio of their
surface charge densities.
Solution
σr
V=
ε0
1
When V is constant, σ r = constant  σ ∝
r
σ1 r2
=
σ 2 r1

19. Two conducting spheres of same radius are charged to potential V1 and V2. Find the ratio of their surface
charge densities.
Solution
σ
V= r
ε0
When r is constant, V ∝ σ
V1 σ 1
=
V2 σ 2

20. The electric potentials at two points A and B, 0.05 m apart are 8.5 V and 8 V respectively. Calculate the
electric field assuming it to be uniform. [10 Vm–1]
Solution
dV  8.0 − 8.5  −1
E=− = −  = 10 Vm
dx  0.05 
21. A regular hexagon of side 10 cm has a charge 5 µC at each of its vertices. Calculate the potential at the
centre of hexagon. [2.7 × 106 V]
Solution
In the figure, O is the centre of hexagon ABCDEFA of side 10 cm.
It is clear from the diagram; OAB, OBC, etc., are equilateral triangle.
OA = OB = OC = OD = OE = OF = r = 10 cm = 0.1 m
and q = 5 × 10–6 C
1 q  5 × 10−6 
Potential at O, V = 6 × = 6 × 9 × 109  6
 = 2.7 × 10 V
4πε 0 r  0.1 
22. How does the potential energy change when (i) a proton (ii) an electron moves in the direction of an
electric field?
Solution
(i) The potential energy of a proton decreases.
(ii) The potential energy of an electron increases.
23. Equipotential surfaces are perpendicular to field lines. Why?
Solution
No work is done in moving a charge from one point to other on an equipotential surface. This indicates
that the component of electric field along the equipotential surface is zero. Hence, the equipotential
surface is perpendicular to the field lines.

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2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

24. Write the expression for electrostatic potential energy of a system of 2 point charges in an external field.
Solution
1  q1q2 
U = q1V1 + q2V2 +
4πε 0  r12 

25. A charge 10 µC is placed at a point of potential –1 V. What is the potential energy possessed by the
charge? [–10 µJ]
Solution
U = qV
U = 10 × 10-6 × (−1)
U = −1 × 10−5 J
26. For what angular position, the potential energy of a dipole in an external electric field is
(a) maximum and (b) minimum?
Solution
(a) U is maximum when θ = 180°
(b) U is minimum when θ = 0°

Short answer type questions (SA – 3 marks)

27. Apply the principle of superposition to determine the resultant potential at a point due to a system of
point charges in free space (assume the expression for potential due a point charge).
28. Explain the following:
(a) Difference in the potential energy of a point charge between two points in an external electric field
(b) Potential energy of a charge in external field
(c) How is the difference in potential energy of a charge related to work done?
29. Arrive at the relation between electric field and potential.
30. What is an equipotential surface? Mention any two characteristics of equipotential surfaces.
31. Draw the equipotential surfaces for the following charge systems.
(a) A positive point charge
(b) An electric dipole
(c) A system of two identical positive charges
32. Obtain an expression for electrostatic potential energy of a system of two point charges in free space.
33. Obtain an expression for electrostatic potential energy of a system of three point charges in free space.
34. Mention any three differences between the electric potential due to a point charge and the electric
potential due to an electric dipole.
35. Obtain an expression for potential energy of system of two point charges in an external electric field.
36. Obtain an expression for potential energy of an electric dipole in an external electric field (assume the
expression for torque).
37. Obtain an expression for electric field at the surface of a charged conductor in terms of surface charge
density.
38. Explain electrostatic shielding. Mention one application of it.

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 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

39. Explain the effects produced when a dielectric (polar or non-polar) material is placed in an external
electric field.
[Link] 27 to 39 Refer module

Long answer type questions (LA)

40. Obtain an expression for the electric potential due to a point charge in free space.
41. Obtain an expression for the electric potential due to an electric dipole in free space.
[Link] 40 and 41 Refer module

Classwork Numericals
42. A point charge of 6 × 10−8 C is located in air. Find the electric potential
(i) at a point distant 1 mm from the charge and (ii) at a point distant 1 m from the charge.
[V1 = 5.4 ×105 V , V2 = 540 V ]
Solution
Case (i):
Given: q = +6 × 10−8 C, d1 = 1 mm
Potential at a point distant d1 from the charge is
1 q 9  6 × 10
−8

V1 =   = 9 × 10  −3 
= 54 × 104 V = 5.4 × 105 V
4πε 0  d1   1 × 10 
Case (ii):
Given: q = +6 × 10−8 C, d2 = 1 m
Potential at a point distant d2 from the charge is
1  q  9  6 × 10
−8

V2 =   = 9 × 10   = 540 V
4πε 0  d 2   1 
43. Two charges 3 × 10−8 C and −2 × 10−8 C are located 15 cm apart. At what points on the line joining the
two charges is the electric potential zero? Take the potential at infinity to be zero.
[x = 0.06 m between the line joining the charges from –20 nC; x = 0.3 m outside the line joining the
charges from –20 nC]
Solution
Case 1 : Let P be the point in between the two charges on the line joining them.
Potential at P due to charge q1 + Potential at P due to charge at q2 = 0
i.e., V1 + V2 = 0
1  q1 q 
 + 2 =0
4πε 0  AP BP 
3 × 10−8 2 × 10−8
− =0
x (0.15 − x)
3 × 108 2 × 10 −8
=
x 0.15 − x
3(0.15 − x) = 2 x
0.45 − 3x = 2 x
0.45 = 2x + 3x

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2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

 0.45 = 5x
0.45
x= = 0.09 m between the line joining the charges from 3 × 10–8 C charge.
5
Case 2 : Let the point ‘P’ be outside the two charges (closer to negative charge) and along the line
joining the two
Potential at P due to charge q1 + Potential at P due to charge at q2 = 0
i.e., V1 + V2 = 0
1  q1 q  q1 = 3 × 10–8 C q2 = –2 × 10–8 C P
 + 2 =0 A
4πε 0  AP BP  B
3 × 10 −8
2 × 10 −8 0.15 x
− =0 0.15 + x
0.15 + x x
3 × 10−8 2 × 10−8
=
0.15 + x x
3x = 0.30 + 2x
x = 0.30 m
Outside the line joining the charges from – 2 × 10–8 C charge.
44. ABCD is a square of side 2 m. Charges of 5 nC, 10 nC and −5 nC are placed at corners A, B and C
respectively. What is the work done in transferring a charge of 5 µC from D to the point of intersection
of the diagonals? [June-2015] [1.59 × 10−4 J]
Solution
Given q1 = 5 nC, q2 = 10 nC, q3 = −5 nC
AB = BC = CD = DA = 2 m
Diagonal, AC = BD = 2 × side = 2 2 m
AC 2 2
AO = BO = CO = DO = = = 2m
2 2
The potential at the center ‘O’ of the diagonal is,
1  q1 q q 
V0 =  + 2 + 3 
4πε 0  AO BO CO 
 5 × 10−9 10 × 10−9 5 × 10−9 
= 9 × 109  + −  = 63.65 V
 2 2 2 
The potential at the point D is,
1  q1 q q 
VD =  + 2 + 3 
4 πε 0  AD BD CD 
 5 × 10−9 10 × 10−9 5 × 10−9 
VD = 9 × 109  + −  = 31.82 V
 2 2 2 2 
Workdone = potential difference × charge
W = (V0 − VD) q
W = (63.64 − 31.82) 5 × 10−6
W = 1.59 × 10−4 J

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 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

45. A short electric dipole has dipole moment of 4 × 10−9 Cm. Determine the electric potential due to the
dipole at a point distant 0.3 m from the centre of the dipole situated (a) on the axial line (b) on equatorial
line and (c) on a line making an angle of 60° with the dipole axis. [400 V, Zero, 200 V]
Solution
Here p = 4 × 10−9 Cm, r = 0.3 m.
(a) Potential at a point on the axial line is
1 p 9 × 109 × 4 × 10−9
V= ⋅ 2 = = 400 V
4πε 0 r (0.3)2
(b) Potential at a point on the equatorial line = 0.
(c) Potential at a point on a line that makes an angle of 60° with dipole axis is
1 p cos θ 9 × 109 × 4 × 10−9 cos 60°
V= ⋅ = = 200 V
4 πε 0 r2 (0.3) 2
46. Calculate the potential energy of a system of charges 1 nC, 2 nC and −4 nC, placed at the three vertices
of an equilateral triangle of side 10 cm. [− 9 × 10−7 J]
Solution
q1 = 1 nC, q2 = 2 nC, q3 = −4 nC
rAB = rBC = rCA = 10 × 10−2 m A
1 nC
Potential energy of a system of charges,
 1  qi q j
PE =  
 4πε 0  rij
 1× 2 2 × ( −4 ) 1× ( −4 ) 
PE = 9 × 109 × 10−18  −2
+ −2
+ 
10 × 10 10 × 10 10 × 10−2 
9 × 10−9 C
= [ 2 − 8 − 4] = −9 ×10−7 J . B 10 × 10−2 m −4 nC
10−1 2 nC

Assignment Numericals
10 20
47. A point charge of × 10−8 C is at a distance of 1 m from another point charge of × 10−8 C in air.
3 3
Find the electric potential at a point between them distant 0.2 m from the weaker charge. [2.25 kV]
Solution
10 20
Given: q1 = × 10−8 C; q2 = × 10−8 C
3 3
Distance between q1 and q2 = 1 m
Let A be the point at a distance of 0.2 m from the weaker charge
1  q1 
Electric potential at A due to q1 is V1 =   where d1 = 0.2 m
4πε 0  d1 
 10 −8 

9
 3 × 10  900 9000
∴ V1 = 9 × 10  = = = 1500 V
 0.2  0.6 6
 
1  q2 
Electric potential at A due to q2 is V2 =   where d2 = 1 − 0.2 = 0.8 m
4πε 0  d 2 

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2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

1  20 × 10 −8  1800
∴ V2 =  = = 750 V
4πε 0  3 × 0.8  2.4
Net potential at A is V1 + V2
= 1500 + 750 = 2250 V = 2.25 kV
48. Calculate the work to be done to displace an electron which is at a distance of 5 cm from a charge of
20 µC, to a distance 10 cm. [2.88 × 10−13 J]
Solution
Let charge q = 20 µC is at point O. Let P1 be the position of electron at x1 = 5 cm from q, and P2 be the
point at x2 = 10 cm from q, where the electron is to be moved.
 1 q O
Potential at a point due to a charge, V =  
 4πε 0  x
9 × 109 × 20 × 10−6 6 9 × 109 × 20 × 10−6
∴ VP1 = = 3.6 × 10 V and V P2 = = 1.8 × 106 V
5 × 10−2 10 × 10−2
Work done to move a charge q between two points,
W = potential difference × charge moved
( )
W = VP1 − VP2 × e = ( 3.6 − 1.8 )106 × 1.6 × 10−19 = 2.88 × 10−13 J

49. Two charges 5 × 10–8 C and –3 × 10–8 C are located 16 cm apart. At what points on the line joining the
two charges is the electric potential zero? Take the potential at infinity to be zero.
[x = 0.10 m from 50 nC between the two charges; x = 0.24 m from −30 nC
outside the line joining the two charges]
Solution
Case 1: Let the point P be in between the two charges at a distance x from charge q1 as shown.
At P, potential V = 0
1 q1 1 q2
0= + q1 = 5 × 10–8 C P q2 = –3 × 10–8 C
4 πε 0 x 4 πε 0 ( 0.16 − x )
q1 −q2 x 0.16 – x
=
x ( 0.16 − x )

5 × 10−8 − ( −3 × 10 )
−8

=
x ( 0.16 − x )
5 3
=
x ( 0.16 − x )
5(0.16 – x) = 3 x
0.80 – 5x = 3 x
0.80 = 8x  x = 0.10 m or 10 cm
Case 2: Let the point ‘P’ be outside the two charges at a distance x from charge q1 as shown.
At P, potential V = 0
1 q1 1 q2
+ =0
4πε 0 x 4 πε 0 0.16 + x P q1 = –5 × 10–8 C q2 = –3 × 10–8 C
q1 −q 2 x
=
x 0.16 + x (0.16 + x)
5 × 10−8 3 × 10−8
=
x 0.16 + x

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 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

0.8 + 5x = 3x
2x = –0.8
x = –0.4 m
This negative sign indicates that the point P is not near to q1 but on the opposite side near to q2 at a
distance of 0.4 m from 50 nC.
∴ P is at (0.4 – 0.16) = 0.24 m from –30 nC.
50. ABCD is a square of side 1 m. Point charges of 2 × 10–10 C, –4 × 10–10 C and 8 × 10–10 C are placed at
corners A, B and C respectively. Calculate the work done in transferring a charge of 10 µC from D to the
point of intersection of diagonals. [1.159 × 10–5 J]
Solution
qA = 2 × 10–10 C, qB = –4 × 10–10 C, qC = 8 × 10–10 C
ABCD is square AB = 1 m
1
∴ AO = BO = CO = m
2
AC = BD = 2 m
 1  q A 9 × 109 × 2 × 10−10
Electric potential at O due to charge at A is (VO ) A =   = V
 4πε 0  AO  1 
 
 2
Electric potential at O due to charge at B is
 1  qB 9 × 10 × ( −4 × 10 )
9 −10

(VO ) B =   = V
 4πε 0  BO  1 
 
 2
Electric potential at O due to charge at C is
 1  qC 9 × 109 × 8 × 10−10
(VO )C =   = V
 4πε 0  CO  1 
 
 2
Net potential at O
∴VO = (VO ) A + (VO ) B + (VO )C
 1 
 × 2 × 10 ( 2 − 4 + 8 ) = 9 × 10 × 10 × 2 × 6
−10 9 −10
=
 4 πε 0 

VO = 7.614 V
Net potential at D, VD = (VD)A + (VD)B + (VD)C
 1   qA q q 
=  + B + C 
 4πε 0   AD BD CD 
 2 4 8
VD = 9 × 109 × 10−10  − + 
1 2 1
= 9 × 10–1 (10 – 4 × 0.707)
= 0.9 (10 – 2.828)
VD = 6.455 V
Work done to move a charge q from D to O is,
W = q(VO – VD) = 10 × 10–6 (7.614 – 6.455)
W = 1.159 × 10–5 J

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2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

51. A hollow metal sphere is charged with 0.4 µC of charge and has a radius of 0.1 m. Find the potential
(i) at the surface (ii) inside the sphere (iii) at a distance of 0.6 m from the centre. The sphere is placed in
air. [36 kV, 36 kV, 6 kV]
Solution
Given: q = 0.4 µC, r = 0.1 m
(i) potential at the surface
1  q  9 × 109 × 4 × 10 −7
V= = = 36000 V = 36 kV
4πε 0  r  0.1
(ii) potential inside a hollow sphere is same as on its surface.
(iii) potential at a distance of 0.6 m from the centre
1  q  9 × 109 × 4 × 10 −7
V= = = 6000V = 6kV
4πε 0  r  0.6

52. Find the amount of work done in arranging the three point charges, on the vertices of an equilateral
triangle ABC, of side 10 cm, as shown in the adjacent figure. [−3.24 J]

Solution
Given qA= 6 µC, qB = 6 µC and qC = −6 µC
The workdone in arranging the three point charges on the vertices of an equilateral triangle ABC is given
by
1  q A qB qB qC q A qC 
W= + +
4 πε 0  AB BC AC 
1  q.q q.(−q ) q.(−q) 
W= + +
4πε 0  r r r 
1  q2  9 × 109 × (6 × 10−6 )2
W =−   = − = −3.24 J
4πε0  r  0.1

53. Two point charges of +3.2 × 10−19 C and −3.2 × 10−19 C are placed at a distance of 2.4 × 10−10 m from
each other, forming an electric dipole. Find
(i) the electric dipole moment
(ii) potential energy of the dipole in equilibrium position
(iii) workdone in turning the dipole through 180° from the equilibrium position in a uniform electric
field of intensity 4.0 × 105 NC−1. [7.68 × 10−29 Cm, −3.07 × 10−23, 6.14 × 10−23]
Solution
Given: The magnitude of charge q = 3.2 × 10−19 C, dipole length 2a = 2.4 × 10−10 m
1. The electric dipole moment is,
p = q × 2a
= 3.2 × 10−19 × 2.4 × 10−10
= 7.68 × 10−29 cm

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 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

2. The potential energy of the dipole in equilibrium position is

Uo = −pE = −7.68 × 10−29 × 4.0 × 105 = 3.07× 10−23 J
3. workdone in turning the dipole through 180° from the equilibrium position is
W = pE(cos 0°−cos 180°)
= 2 × 7.68 × 10−29 × 4.0 × 105 = 6.14 × 10−23 J
54. Three points A, B and C lie in a uniform electric field (E) of 5 × 103 NC−1 as shown in the figure. Find
the potential difference between A and C. [−200 V]

Solution
Points B and C lie on the equatorial surface, so VC = VB
Therefore, the pd between A and C = pd between A and B
= − E∆x
= −5 × 103 × 4 × 10-2
= −200 V  ∆x = AB = 52 − 32 = 4cm 
 
55. Three point charges of 1 C, 2 C and 3 C are placed at the corners of an
equilateral triangle of side 1 m. Calculate the work required to move these
charges to the corners of a smaller equilateral triangle of sides 0.5 m as
shown in figure. [9.9 × 1010 J]

Solution
Initial potential energy of the system is
1  q1q2 q2 q3 q3 q1 
Ui = + +
4 πε 0  r12 r23 r13 
1 × 2 2 × 3 3 × 1 
= 9 × 109  + +
 1 1 1 
= 9 × 109× 11 = 9.9 × 1010 J
Final P.E. of the system is
1  q1q2 q2 q3 q3 q1 
Uf = + +
4πε 0  r '12 r '23 r '13 
1 × 2 2 × 3 3 × 1 
= 9 × 109  + +
 0.5 0.5 0.5 
= 9 × 109 × 22 = 19.8 × 1010 J
Work done = Uf − Ui
= (19.8 − 9.9) × 1010 = 9.9 × 1010 J

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2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

2.2 Capacitors
Very short answer questions (VSA)
1. What is capacitor?
Solution
Capacitor is an arrangement of two conductors separated by small distance with dielectric between them,
to store charges and electric energy.
2. Define farad.
Solution
The capacitance of a capacitor is said to be one farad, if the potential difference between the two
conductors increases by one volt when one coulomb of charge is added to it.
3. The charge on a capacitor is increased. How does its capacitance change?
Solution
Capacitance remains unchanged.
4. Define dielectric strength of a medium.
Solution
The maximum electric field that a dielectric medium can withstand without break-down of its insulating
property is called its dielectric strength.
5. What is energy density of the electric field?
Solution
The energy stored per unit volume in an electric field is called energy density of the electric field.
6. n identical capacitors each of capacitance C are connected in series. What is their effective capacitance
Solution
C
CS =
n
7. n identical capacitors each of capacitance C are connected in parallel. What is their effective
capacitance?
Solution
CP = nC

Short answer type questions (SA – 2 marks)

8. Mention the factors on which the capacitance of the parallel plate capacitor depends.
Solution
Factors affecting the capacitance of a capacitor
(a) the size and shape of the conductors,
(b) the separation between the conductors and
(c) the dielectric medium between the conductors.
9. While a capacitor remains connected to a battery, a dielectric slab is inserted between the plates. How
does the following quantities change?
(a) Charge (b) Capacitance (c) Potential difference (d) Electric field
Solution
(a) Charge increases by K times (b) Capacitance increases by K times
(c) Potential difference remains constant (d) Electric field remains constant

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 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

10. A dielectric slab is inserted between the plates of a charged capacitor disconnected from a battery. How
does the following quantities change?
(a) Charge (b) Capacitance (c) Potential difference (d) Electric field
Solution
(a) Charge remains constant (b) Capacitance increases by K times
(c) Potential difference decreases by K times (d) Electric field decreases by K times
11. 20 capacitors each of capacitance 1 µF are connected in series. What is the effective capacitance of the
combination?
Solution
 C 1 
Ceff = 0.05 μF ∵ CS = = μF 
 n 20 
12. Three capacitors of capacitance 6 µF each are available. Calculate the minimum and maximum
capacitances.
Solution
Cmax = C1 + C2 + C3
= 6 + 6 +6
∴ Cmax = 18 µF
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1
= + + = + + = =
C min C 1 C 2 C 3 6 6 6 6 2
∴ Cmin = 2 µF
13. Calculate the charge on each capacitor shown in the figure.
10 µF 20 µF

30 V

Solution
C1C 2  10 × 20  −6 20
Cs = =  10 = µF
C1 + C 2  10 + 20  3
But Q = CV
20
∴Q = × 10 −6 × 30 = 200 µC
3
Alternate method
V1 C2 20 2
= = =
V2 C1 10 1
30
V1 = × 2 = 20 volt
2 +1
30
V2 = × 1 = 10 volt
2 +1
Q1 = 200 µC
Charge on 20 µF capacitor is
Q2 = C2V2 = 20 × 10−6 × 10 = 200 µC

13
2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

14. Four identical metal plates each with a surface area A are placed at
1
distance d from each other as shown. The two inner plates are A 2 B
connected to point B and the other two plates to the point A. Find the 3
capacitance of the system. 4

Solution
Plates 1 and 4 joined to A are at same potential.
Similarly, plates 2 and 3 joined to B are at same potential.
The arrangement is equivalent to two capacitors connected in parallel between A and B.
ε A ε A
Effective capacitance, CAB = C1 + C2 = 0 + 0
d d
2ε 0 A
Cp=
d
15. A parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates has capacitance C. What will be the capacitance if
(a) The distance between plates is doubled?
(b) The space between the plates filled with a substance of dielectric constant 5? [March 2020]
Solution
∈ A
(a) C0 = 0
d
C
If d is doubled C reduces to 0
2
∈ A
(b) With dielectric, C1 = K 0
d
C1 = 5C0
i.e., capacitance increases by 5 times.

Short answer type questions (SA – 3 marks)

16. Obtain an expression for the effective capacitance of a combination of two capacitors in series.
17. Obtain an expression for effective capacitance of a combination of two capacitors in parallel.
[Link]. 16 and 17 Refer module

Long answer type questions (LA)

18. Obtain an expression for a capacitance of a parallel plate air capacitor.
19. Explain the effect of a dielectric on the capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor. Hence define the
dielectric constant of a substance.
20. Obtain an expression for the effective capacitance of combination of capacitors in series.
21. Obtain an expression for the effective capacitance of a combination of capacitors in parallel.

Additional Information

22. Obtain an expression for energy stored in a parallel plate capacitor. Hence, write the expression for
energy density of electric field.
[Link]. 18 and 22 Refer module

14
 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

Classwork Numericals
23. In a circular parallel plate capacitor radius of each plate is 5 cm. they are separated by distance 2 mm.
Calculate capacitance and energy stored when it is charged by connecting the battery of 200 V.
[Given: ∈0 = 8.854 × 10−12 Fm−1] [34.75 pF, 695 nJ] [March 2019]
Solution
A = πr2 = 3.14 × (5 × 10−2)2 ≡ 78.5 × 10−4 m2
d = 2 mm = 2 × 10−3 m
V = 200 V
∈0 A 8.854 × 10−12 × 78.5 × 10−4
C= = ; C = 34.75 × 10−12 F
d 2 × 10−3
1 1
U = CV 2 = × 34.75 × 10−12 × (200) 2 ; U = 69.5 × 10−8 J
2 2
24. (a) In a parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates, each plate has an area of 6 × 10−3 m2 and the
distance between the plates is 3 mm. Calculate the capacitance of the capacitor. If this capacitor is
connected to a 100 V supply, then what is the charge on each plate of the capacitor?
[Absolute permittivity of free space = 8.85 × 10−12 Fm−1]
(b) A mica sheet of 3 mm thick (dielectric constant = 6) is inserted between the plates of the capacitor.
What would be the new capacitance? If the voltage supply remains connected when inserting the
mica sheet, what is a new charge stored? What would be the new voltage if the mica sheet is inserted
after disconnecting the supply? [17.7 pF, 1.7 mC, 106 pF, 10.6 nC, 16.67 V]
Solution
(a) Given :ε0 = 8.85 × 10−12 Fm−1; A = 6 × 10−3 m2, d = 3 × 10−3 m
ε A
C= 0
d
8.85 × 10−12 × 6 × 10−3
C=
3 × 10−3
C = 17.7 × 10−12 F
Charge on each plate is
Q=C×V
Q = 17.7 × 10−12× 100
Q = 17.7 × 10−10 C or Q = 1.77 nC
(b) C ′ = ε r C = 6 × 17.7 = 106.2 pF
Q′ = ε r Q = 6 × 1.77 = 10.62 nC
Q 1.77 × 10−9
V′ = = = 16.67 V
C ′ 106.2 × 10−12
25. Three capacitors each of capacitance 9 pF are connected is series. (a) What is the total capacitance of the
combination? (b) What is the potential difference across each capacitor if the combination is connected
to a 120 V supply? [3 pF, 40 V]
Solution
1 1 1 1
The effective capacitance Cs in series is given by = + + + ...
Cs C1 C2 C3

15
2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

1 1 1 1 3 1
= + + = =
Cs 9 9 9 9 3
Cs = 3 pF
1 1 1 1 1 1
In series, V1 : V2 : V3 = : : = : :
C1 C2 C2 9 9 9
=1:1:1
supply voltage 120 V
∴ Potential difference across each capacitor = = = 40 V
no. of capacitors 3
26. Three capacitors of capacitances 2 pF, 3 pF and 4 pF are connected in parallel. (a) What is the total
capacitance of the combination? (b) Determine the charge on each capacitor, if the combination is
connected to 100 V supply. [9 pF, q1 = 200 pC, q2 = 300 pC q3 = 400 pC]
Solution
Effective capacitance Cp in parallel,
100 V
Cp = C1 + C2 + C3 = 2 + 3 + 4 = 9 pF
Cp = 9 pF
Since, p.d is same across each capacitor i.e., 100 V
2 pF
q
C= or q = CV
V
3 pF
q1 = C1V = 2 × 100 = 200 pC
q2 = C2V = 3 × 100 = 300 pC 4 pF
q3 = C3V = 4 × 100 = 400 pC
27. The plates of a parallel plate capacitor have an area of 100 cm2 each and are separated by 3 mm. The
capacitor is charged by connecting it to a 400 V supply.
(a) Calculate the electrostatic energy stored in the capacitor. [2.3608 × 10–6 J]
(b) If a dielectric of dielectric constant 2.5 is introduced between the plates of the capacitor, then find
the electrostatic energy stored and also change in the energy stored. [5.902 × 10–6 J, 3.514 × 10–6 J]
Solution
Data: A = 100 cm2 = 100 × 10–4 m2 = 1 × 10–2 m2
d = 3 mm = 3 × 10–3 m
(a) To find energy stored
ε A
Capacitance, C0 = 0
d
8.854 × 10−12 × 1 × 10−2
C0 =
3 × 10−3
C0 = 2.951 × 10–11 F
1
Energy stored: U 0 = C0V 2
2
1
U 0 = × 2.951 × 10−11 × (400)2 = 23.608 × 10−7 J = 2.3608 × 10−6 J
2
(b) When a dielectric, K = 2.5 is introduced,
New: capacitance C = KC0
1 1
Energy stored: U = CV 2 = ( KC0 )V 2 = KU0 = 2.5 × 2.3608 × 10–6
2 2

16
 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

U = 5.902 × 10−6 J
Change in energy, ∆U = U − U0 = (5.902 – 2.3608) 10–6 J
∆U = 3.5412 × 10−6 J
28. When two capacitors are connected in series and connected across 4 kV line, the energy stored in the
system is 8 J. The same capacitors, if connected in parallel across the same line, the energy stored is
36 J. Find the individual capacitances. [3 ×10-6 F, 1.5 ×10-6 F] [March-2016]
Solution
Given V = 4 × 103 V, US = 8 J, UP = 36 J, C1 = ? C2 = ?
1
We have the energy stored in the capacitor is, U = CV 2
2
1 C + C2
For series combination, U s = CSV 2 , but CS = 1
2 C1 + C2
1 CC 
8 =  1 2  (4 × 103 )2 CP = C1 + C2
2  C1 + C2 
1 C C  16 CC
8 =  1 2  (16 × 106 ), × 10−6 = 1 2
2  C1 + C2  16 C1 + C2
C1C2 = (C1 + C2) 1 × 10−6 …(1)
For parallel combination,
1 1
U P = CPV 2 36 = (C1 + C2 )(4 ×103 ) 2
2 2
−6
2 × 36 × 10
= C1 + C2
16
4.5 × 10−6 = C1 + C2 …(2)
Substituting Eq.(2) in Eq.(1), we get,
C1C2 = (4.5 × 10–6) 10−6
C1C2 = 4.5 × 10−12 …(3)
From exp (C1 − C2 )2 = (C1 + C2 )2 − 4C1C2
(C1 − C2 ) 2 = (4.5 × 10−6 )2 − 4 × 4.5 × 10−12
(C1 − C2 )2 = 20.25 × 10−12 − 18 × 10−12
C1 − C2 = 2.25 × 10−12
C1− C2 = 1.5 × 10−6 …(4)
From eqn. (2) and (4)
C1 + C2 = 4.5 × 10−6
C1− C2 = 1.5 × 10−6
2C1 = 6 × 10−6
C1 = 3 × 10−6 F
C2 = (4.5 − 3) × 10−6 C2 = 1.5 × 10−6 F
29. A 400 pF capacitor charged by a 100 V dc supply is disconnected from the supply and connected to
another uncharged 400 pF capacitor, calculate the loss of energy. [100 × 10−8 J]
Solution
C1 = 400 × 10−12 F, C2 = 400 × 10−12 F, V1 = 100 V, V2 = 0
1 1
Initial energy of the capacitor, U1 = C1V12 = × 400 × 10−12 × (100) 2 = 200 ×10−12 ×104 = 200 ×10−8 J
2 2

17
2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

Total charge when two capacitor is connected together will be q1 + q2

Q = q1 + q2 = C1V1 + C2V2
= 400 × 10−12 × 100 + 400 × 10−12 × 0 = 40, 000 × 10−12
Q = 4 ×10−8 C
C p = C1 + C2 = 400 + 400
CP = 800 × 10−12 F
total charge
total potential =
total capacitance
Q 4 × 10−8
V= = −12
= 0.005 × 104  V = 50 V
CP 800 × 10
1 1
Final energy of the capacitor, U 2 = CPV 2 = × 800 × 10−12 × (50) 2
2 2
= 400 × 10−12 × 2,500 = 10,00,000 × 10−12
U 2 = 100 ×10−8 J
Loss in energy = U1− U2 = (200 − 100) × 10−8
U = 100 × 10−8 J

Alternative method
1 C1C2 1 400 × 10−12 × 400 × 10−12
Loss in energy, ∆U =
2
(V2 − V1 ) = × −12 −12
( 0 − 100 )2 = 10−6 J
2 C1 + C2 2 400 × 10 + 400 × 10

Assignment Numericals
30. A parallel capacitor has plates of area 0.12 m2 and a separation of 12 mm. A battery charges the plates to
a pd of 120 V and is then disconnected. A dielectric slab of thickness 12 mm and dielectric constant 4.8
is then placed between the plates. Find (a) the capacitance before the slab is introduced, (b) the
capacitance after the slab is introduced, (c) the electric field and potential after the slab is introduced.
[ 8.85 × 10−11 F , 4.25 × 10−10 F , 25 V, 2.1 × 103 Vm −1 ]
Solution
ε0 A 8.85 × 10−12 × 0.12
(a) C0 = = = 8.85 × 10−11 F
t 12 × 10−3
εε A
(b) C = r 0 = εr × C0 = 4.8 × 8.85 × 10−11 = 4.25 × 10−10 F
t
V 120
(c) (i) E0 = 0 = −3
= 104 Vm−1 (V0 = 120 volts)
d 12 × 10
(ii) Charge being same, C0V0 = CV
C V V 120
or V = 0 0 = 0 = = 25 volts
C ε r 4.8
V 25
Field E = = = 2.1× 103 Vm−1a
d 12 × 10−3

18
 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

31. You are given 3 capacitors each of capacitance 9 µF. In how many ways can they be combined? What
will be the effective capacitance in each case? [four ways, 27 µF, 3 µF, 6 µF,13.5 µF]
Solution
They can be combined in 4 ways:
(1) All the three in parallel.
(2) All the three in series.
(3) Parallel combination of two in series with the third.
(4) Series combination of two in parallel with the third.
In the first case, effective capacity is, 3 × 9 µF = 27 µF
9
In the second case, effective capacity is, µF = 3µF
3
8×9
In the third case, effective capacity is (parallel combination of two gives 18 µF) = 6 µF
18 + 9
In the fourth case, effective capacity is (series combination of two gives 4.5 µF) (4.5 + 9) = 13.5 µF
32. The plates of a parallel plate capacitor have an area of 90 cm2 each and are separated by 2.5 mm. The
capacitor is charged by connecting it to a 400 V supply.
(a) How much electrostatic energy is stored by the capacitor?
(b) View this energy as stored in the dielectric field between the plates, and obtain the energy per unit
volume. Hence arrive at a relation between (u) energy per unit volume and magnitude of electric
field E between the plates. U = 2.55 × 10−6 J , 0.113 Jm −3 
Solution
(a) A = 90 × 10−4 m2, d = 2.5 × 10−3 m, V = 400 V
1 1 ε A
Energy stored in the capacitor, U = CV 2 =  0 V 2
2 2 d 
1  8.85 × 10 −12 × 90 × 10 −4  2
U= ×  × 400
2  2.5 × 10 −3 
U = 2.55 × 10−6 J
(b) Volume of the capacitor, V = A × d = 90 × 10−4 × 2.5 × 10−3
= 2.25 × 10−4 m3
−6
Energy 2.55 × 10
= = 0.113 Jm −3
Volume 2.25 × 10−4
1 1  ε0 A  2
V
2  d 
CV 2 2
U 2 1 V 
Energy per unit volume, also u = = = = ε0  
V Ad Ad 2 d
V 1
But electric intensity, E = , u = ε0 E 2
d 2
33. Find the charge appearing on each of the three capacitors shown in figure. [48 µC, 24 µC]
8 µF

12 V 4 µF
4 µF

19
2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

Solution
The effective capacitance of (4 µF || 4 µF) is Cp = 4 + 4 = 8 µF. 8 µF
CC
Now, 8 µF and 8 µF are in series ∴ Cs = 1 2 = 4µF 8 µF
C1 + C2 .
12 V

Charge = Q = CV = 4 × 10−6 × 12 = 48 µC.

Charge on 8 µF = 48 µC. Charge on each of the 4 µF = 24 µC
34. Calculate the effective capacitance of capacitors connected between the points A and B. [1.91 µF]
1 µF 2 µF 4 µF B
A

3 µF
Solution
C1C2 1× 2 2
Effective capacitance of the capacitors 1 µF and 2 µF in series is CS = = = µF
C1 + C2 1+ 2 3
2
Effective capacitance of (2/3) µF and 3 µF in parallel is CP = CS + C3 = + 3  CP = (11/3) µF
3
This is in series with 4 µF between A and B.
(11 / 3) × 4 44
Hence, the effective capacitance of the circuit across A and B is C = =  C = 1.91 µF
(11 / 3) + 4 23
35. Obtain equivalent capacitance of the following network, shown below. For a 300 V supply, determine
the charge and voltage across each capacitor.
C1 = 100 pF

C3 = 200 pF

C2 = 200 pF +
300 V
−
C4 = 100 pF
200
[Equivalent capacitance = pF , q1 = 10−8 C, V1 = 100 V; q2 = q3 = 10−8 C, V2 = V3 = 50 V,
3
q4 = 2 × 10−8 C, V4 = 200 V]
Solution C1
In the figure (c), capacitors 100 pF and 200 pF are in series. 100 pF
The p.d. across C4 is in the ratio 1 C4
300 × 2 C2 C3
V4 = = 200 V 100 pF
2 +1 200 pF 200 pF
q
C4 = 4  q4 = C4V4 = (100 × 10−12) × 200 = 2 × 10−8C
V4 300 V
C1 (a)
q4 = 2 × 10−8C
C4
Potential difference across 100 pF

200 pF = 300 − 200 = 100 V 100 pF

100 pF
∴pd cross C1 is also V1 = 100 V
Charge on C1, q1 = C1× 100 300 V
q1 = 100 × 10−12 × 100 (b)

20
 2PBDBEPS-Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

 q1 = 10−8 C
C4
Potential difference across C2 and C3 in series
100 100 pF 200 pF
∴ V2 = V3 = = 50 V
2
Q2 = C2 V2 = 200 × 10−12 × 50 = 10−8 C 300 V
Q3 = C3 V3 = 200 × 10−12 × 50 = 10−8 C (c)
36. In a parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates, each plate has an area 8 × 10−3 m2 and distance
between the plates is 2 mm. Calculate the capacitance of the capacitor. If this capacitor is connected to a
50 V supply, what is the charge on each plate of the capacitor? (Absolute permittivity of free space
= 8.85 × 10−12 F m−1) [35.4 pF, 1.77 nC]
Solution
ε A 8.85 × 10−12 × 8 × 10−3
C= 0 = = 3.54 × 10−11 F
d 2 × 10−3
Q = CV = 3.54 × 10−11 × 50 = 1.77 × 10−9 C

37. Find the charge and pd across 2 µF capacitor in the circuit below. [10 µC, 5 V]
2 µF 5 µF

3 µF 10 µF

10V
Solution
Capacitors 3 µF, 2 µF, and 5 µF are in parallel.
CP = C1 + C2 + C3 = 10 µF
CP is in series with 10 µF.
As capacitances are equal, pd gets divided equally. Pd across parallel combination = 5 V.
∴ Charge on 2 µF = CV = 2 × 5 = 10 µC
pd across 2 µF = 5V.

21